The United States Environmental Protection Agency details the benefits of maintaining your septic system, including, saving you money, protecting your property value, keeping you healthy, and protecting the environment.
The Huffington Post offers the do’s and don’ts of septic care that you should live by. DO use high-quality toilet tissue. DON’T dump grease down the drain.
Check out the answer to this and much more in the Septic Guide for Homeowners from the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality.
A septic tank is designed to handle a certain amount of wastewater from your home. If too much water enters the tank too quickly, it can become overloaded. Common signs include slow drains, toilets that back up, and water pooling around your yard. You may also notice unpleasant odors near your septic system. Overloading can happen if your household uses more water than usual or if appliances like washing machines and dishwashers are used at the same time. Paying attention to these warning signs can help prevent bigger problems.
There are several reasons why a septic tank can become overloaded. One main cause is excessive water usage in a short period. For example, doing multiple loads of laundry in one day or running several showers back-to-back can strain the system. Another cause is a damaged or clogged septic tank or drain field. Tree roots, grease, or debris can block the pipes and prevent wastewater from flowing properly. Additionally, heavy rain can saturate the soil around your drain field, reducing its ability to absorb water and causing the tank to fill up faster. Knowing these causes can help you avoid overloading your system.
Preventing overload is easier than repairing damage later. First, try to spread out water usage throughout the day. Avoid running all appliances at the same time. Regular maintenance, like pumping your septic tank every three to five years, is also important. Check your system for any leaks, clogs, or signs of damage. Avoid flushing items that can block the system, such as wipes, grease, or chemicals. Lastly, protect your drain field by not parking vehicles or planting trees on it. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your septic tank working properly and prevent costly repairs.
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Check out this chart from Family Education to see how your tank size stacks up to the size of your household.
